AIADMK Leader Palaniswami Endorses Election Commission's Transfer of Chief Secretary
AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami on Thursday expressed his firm support for the Election Commission of India's decision to transfer Tamil Nadu Chief Secretary N Muruganandam. In a sharp critique, Palaniswami targeted Chief Minister M K Stalin for his opposition to the transfer, alleging that the DMK relies more on bureaucratic influence than on genuine public backing for electoral success.
Palaniswami Criticizes DMK's Dependence on Bureaucrats
Speaking to reporters before launching his campaign in the Chepauk-Triplicane constituency, where Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin is contesting, Palaniswami emphasized that the ECI's action was based on complaints from opposition parties and the public. "We are not concerned about who is posted where. Ultimately, it is people who are going to vote," he stated, underscoring his party's focus on democratic processes over administrative appointments.
Attacks on DMK Figures and 2G Spectrum Case
Palaniswami also launched a verbal assault on DMK MP Kanimozhi, referencing the pending 2G spectrum case. He warned that she could face imprisonment, saying, "She should not forget that the 2G spectrum case was still pending before the court and that she might end up in Tihar jail once again." This remark came in response to Kanimozhi's earlier comment suggesting that the BJP might appoint Palaniswami as a governor post-elections, which he dismissed as taught rhetoric.
Defense of Seeking Blessings and Clarification on Controversial Remarks
Addressing criticism over a photo showing him at the feet of V K Sasikala, Palaniswami defended the act as a respectful gesture. "What is wrong in seeking an elder's blessings?" he questioned, framing it as a cultural norm rather than a political misstep. Additionally, he clarified his previous statement about Chief Minister Stalin and COVID-19, denying any harmful intent. "I did not mean any harm," he asserted, but cautioned that he would retaliate if faced with derogatory remarks from his opponents.
Campaign Strategy and Political Retaliation
Palaniswami outlined his campaign approach, indicating that his responses would be shaped by the actions of his rivals. "If the chief minister and deputy chief minister continue to make derogatory remarks against me, I will retaliate," he declared, highlighting the escalating tensions in Tamil Nadu's political landscape as elections approach.
